Lawson, 53, who was candid during her testimony, spoke out against her treatment in court, calling the experience, which some have argued has done deep damage to her public image, "deeply disturbing."

"When false claims about habitual drug use were introduced I did everything possible to ensure the CPS was aware of the sustained background campaign deliberately designed to destroy my reputation," Lawson said. "During the trial not one witness claimed to see me take drugs and not one of my three assistants was asked about these claims by the defense, despite being cross-examined at length. I did my civic duty, only to be maliciously vilified without the right to respond."

Lawson said that she regretted being forced to speak publicly about the end of her marriage and called it "harrowing" for her children to see her face such allegations at trial "without any real protection or representation."

"For this, I cannot forgive the court process," Lawson noted, thanking supporters and family who stood by her during a tough time.